Monday 8 October 2007

Thermal waters explained

The formation of spa waters is relatively simple. Water coming from the depths towards the surface permeates rocks of various composition and extracts the minerals. This becomes medicinal water. Our body absorbs the dissolved components through the skin and when bathing we also inhale these substances in steam. In addition to the chemical features of the water we also make use of its physical characteristics, since its temperature and current both relax and cure our tired limbs. In order to perk up we should look for a so-called cool bath of 15-20ºC. Our nervous system is calmed by 21- 31ºC water, while hotter than that will expand the blood vessels and accelerate the function of the heart. Hence we are advised to spend only a short time in such water and even then we must avoid doing it on a full stomach or when we are exhausted, since it can easily cause sickness. (Children are advised against going into these hot waters.)

We are inclined to connect spa waters with ailments, yet a healthy person can also enjoy their benefit. On the one hand they help prevent diseases and on the other they improve our well-being, relax and calm us. It is a great feeling when, after an exhausting day, we can stretch out in the bath tub. No need to go into detail how much a pool full of spa water can make us feel relaxed.

It is not easy to list precisely how many types of waters can cure us. Medicinal waters can be hydrocarbonic, they can contain alkalis, cobalt and sodium-chloride, as well as sulphur and iron. They can even be radioactive. They all cure different ailments. Apart from the waters being used for bathing some can be inhaled or taken as a drinking cure. (When tasting it is sometimes difficult to imagine that they can really help, but they are said not to be too horrid if we take small sips while walking.) To complete the picture: thermal waters can not only work wonders themselves but their mud can treat and cure various illnesses.

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